This bill amends existing labor laws in Washington State to provide agricultural employers with the flexibility to designate any 12 weeks in a calendar year as "special circumstance weeks" for labor demand. During these selected weeks, employers can require agricultural employees to work up to 50 hours before the overtime pay requirement applies, which is a change from the standard 40-hour workweek threshold. The bill also mandates that agricultural employers maintain records of the selected weeks and provide written notice to employees regarding these weeks, ensuring transparency and communication about work expectations.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions that protect agricultural employers from penalties related to unpaid overtime claims for employees who were historically exempt from overtime pay prior to the changes enacted in 2021. This retroactive protection applies to claims initiated after November 5, 2020, while still allowing for exceptions for certain dairy employees involved in ongoing litigation. The legislation aims to balance the needs of the agricultural industry, which faces unique challenges, with the rights of workers, ensuring that both employers and employees can navigate the complexities of agricultural labor demands effectively.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 49.46.130